EP2369306A1 - Device for dispensing a liquid product. - Google Patents

Device for dispensing a liquid product. Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2369306A1
EP2369306A1 EP11170173A EP11170173A EP2369306A1 EP 2369306 A1 EP2369306 A1 EP 2369306A1 EP 11170173 A EP11170173 A EP 11170173A EP 11170173 A EP11170173 A EP 11170173A EP 2369306 A1 EP2369306 A1 EP 2369306A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
dispensing
optical fiber
valve
product
dose
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP11170173A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2369306B1 (en
Inventor
Pascal Bruna
Jean-Denis Sauzade
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Aptar France SAS
Original Assignee
Valois SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Valois SAS filed Critical Valois SAS
Publication of EP2369306A1 publication Critical patent/EP2369306A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2369306B1 publication Critical patent/EP2369306B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G01MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01FMEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F13/00Apparatus for measuring by volume and delivering fluids or fluent solid materials, not provided for in the preceding groups
    • G01F13/008Apparatus for measuring by volume and delivering fluids or fluent solid materials, not provided for in the preceding groups taps comprising counting- and recording means
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00Inhalators
    • A61M15/0065Inhalators with dosage or measuring devices
    • A61M15/0068Indicating or counting the number of dispensed doses or of remaining doses
    • A61M15/008Electronic counters
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00Inhalators
    • A61M15/009Inhalators using medicine packages with incorporated spraying means, e.g. aerosol cans
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00Inhalators
    • A61M15/08Inhaling devices inserted into the nose
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/02General characteristics of the apparatus characterised by a particular materials
    • A61M2205/0272Electro-active or magneto-active materials
    • A61M2205/0294Piezoelectric materials

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a fluid dispenser device, and more particularly to such a device comprising a pump or a manually operated valve.
  • the present invention aims to provide a fluid spray device that does not reproduce the aforementioned drawbacks.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide a device for spraying a fluid product comprising a pump or a valve which avoids any risk of overdose and / or under-counting of the doses emitted.
  • the present invention also aims to provide such a device that is simple and inexpensive to manufacture and assemble, as well as safe and reliable to use.
  • the present invention therefore relates to a fluid dispenser device as described in claim 1.
  • Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.
  • a dispenser member which is a pump 10, on which is assembled a dispensing head 20 provided with a dispensing orifice 25.
  • the pump can be of any type, and the internal structure of this pump does not will not be described in more detail below.
  • the present invention applies in particular, but not exclusively, to dispensing pumps which are adapted to distribute in a very finely sprayed manner a dose of fluid product with each actuation.
  • the dispensing head 20 shown on the figure 1 is a nasal dispensing head, and it is used to manually actuate the pump 10.
  • the pump 10 is intended to be assembled on a reservoir (not shown), in any known manner.
  • the device comprises distribution detection means 30, 31 which are adapted to detect the distribution of a dose of product.
  • These detection means 30, 31 are preferably adapted to deliver a signal used to inform the user that a dose of product has actually been dispensed by said pump.
  • the information of the user can be realized in various ways, for example by means of a display device. Alternatively, one could consider using sound information means or the like to indicate to the user the distribution of the dose.
  • the signal emitted by the distribution detection means 30 could also be used to actuate a dose counter.
  • the present invention makes it possible to avoid any risk of overdose by informing the user that the dose was well distributed.
  • these detection means comprise a dynamic pressure detector 30 for detecting the passage of product between the pump 10 and the dispensing orifice 25.
  • the detector 30 preferably comprises a piezoelectric material, advantageously PVDF (PolyVynil DiFluoride), which is a plastic material having piezoelectric properties,
  • a piezoelectric material advantageously PVDF (PolyVynil DiFluoride)
  • PVDF PolyVynil DiFluoride
  • the detector 30 comprises a PVDF tube operating in breathing mode.
  • This implementation guarantees a perfectly reliable detection, even in the case of very small quantities expelled.
  • the detector 30 may be disposed in the expulsion channel 50 which connects the dispensing pump 10 to the spray orifice 25 of the device.
  • it is arranged in a sleeve 40 connected on the one hand to the actuating rod of the pump 10 and on the other hand to the dispensing head 20.
  • This sleeve 40 can be fitted around this actuating rod, and it can be formed in two parts 41, 42 nested one on or around the other, the detector 30 being disposed between these two parts. This simplifies and facilitates the assembly of the device, and ensures sealing.
  • the figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment, wherein the dispensing member is a valve 10, for example a metering valve operating in the inverted position.
  • the detector 30 is implemented in a manner similar to the previous example, namely in the form of a PVDF tube placed in a sleeve 40 made in two parts 41, 42, and assembled around the valve well of the valve.
  • the fluid product is generally an aqueous solution, the maximum pressure at the outlet of the valve being up to 1000 kPa (10 bar). This implies high stresses on the detector as well as the tightness, and the structure described above makes it possible to adapt without any problem to these constraints to ensure reliable operation of the dispensing device, avoiding any under-counting and overdosing. , even in case of partial actuation of the device.
  • the figure 4 shows an embodiment of the invention, in which the detection means comprise a detector formed by an optical fiber 30.
  • This optical fiber is preferably associated with a deformable membrane 31, advantageously arranged around a portion of the channel of expulsion 50. During the expulsion of fluid product, the membrane 31 is deformed, in particular under the effect of pressure, which generates stresses in the optical fiber 30, thus creating a signal exploitable by appropriate electronic means 60.
  • Optical measurement is advantageous in terms of miniaturization insofar as an optical fiber compatible with molding techniques and / or plastic overmoulding is used.
  • the optical fiber 30 cooperates with the membrane 31 in a housing 45 which can be secured to the dispensing head 20, and in which the optical fiber 30 is fixedly retained so as to detect any deformation of the membrane 31.
  • the electrical means 60 may comprise a transmitter and a detector sensitive to the variation of light flux transmitted not the optical fiber 30, variation due to the stress generated in the fiber.
  • the optical fiber can be a plastic or glass.
  • the detection means 30, 31 can be connected, via suitable connection means 35, to electronic means (60) which are adapted to process the signal or signals delivered by said detector 30, to inform the user. the dose distribution, and / or operate a counter or dose indicator.

Abstract

A dispenser, e.g. for a pharmaceutical, perfume or cosmetic fluid product expelled by a manually-operated pump or valve (10) through a head (20) with an outlet (25), incorporates a detector (30) that detects and indicates the successful passage of a dose of the product. The dispenser, e.g. for a pharmaceutical, perfume or cosmetic fluid product expelled by a manually-operated pump or valve (10) through a head (20) with an outlet (25), incorporates a detector (30) that detects and indicates the successful passage of a dose of the product. The detector, which is located in the dispenser's discharge channel (50), can operate by dynamic pressure, by using a piezoelectric material, a breathing polymer or an optical fibre associated with a deformable membrane.

Description

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de distribution de produit fluide, et plus particulièrement un tel dispositif comportant une pompe ou une valve actionnée manuellement.The present invention relates to a fluid dispenser device, and more particularly to such a device comprising a pump or a manually operated valve.

Il est connu d'utiliser des pompes ou des valves pour distribuer de manière dosée du produit fluide (liquide, crème ou poudre), notamment dans le domaine de la pharmacie, de la parfumerie et de la cosmétique. En particulier dans le domaine de la pharmacie, il peut être très important d'éviter tous risques de surdosage et/ou de sous-comptage. Avec une valve, fonctionnant au moyen d'un gaz propulseur, le problème concerne surtout le comptage des doses émises, et il est souvent nécessaire d'éviter tout risque de sous-comptage pour éviter que l'utilisateur ne se retrouve avec un dispositif vide alors qu'il pense qu'il reste quelques doses à distribuer. En effet, des systèmes de comptage sont généralement associés à ces valves pour compter les doses émises, ces systèmes étant généralement actionnés par le déplacement relatif entre le réservoir et la soupape de la valve. Des problèmes peuvent se poser en cas d'actionnement partiel ou interrompu, qui peut provoquer une expulsion de dose, partielle ou non. Des compteurs compliqués ont été proposés pour prendre en compte ce problème, mais leur fiabilité impose une complexité et donc un coût élevé. Lorsque l'on utilise une pompe, et notamment les pompes de nouvelle génération, il peut se poser un autre problème en plus du risque de sous-comptage. En effet, la pulvérisation peut être tellement fine que la distribution de la dose n'est pas toujours ressentie par l'utilisateur. Ceci est notamment vrai avec certaines pompes de distribution nasales. Dans ce cas, si il n'y a aucune indication donnée à l'utilisateur pour lui indiquer que la dose à bien été distribuée, il y'a un risque que l'utilisateur actionne à nouveau le dispositif en pensant que son premier actionnement a été inefficace. Ceci entraîne un risque de surdosage, qui peut être néfaste pour sa santé.It is known to use pumps or valves to dispense metered fluid (liquid, cream or powder), especially in the field of pharmacy, perfumery and cosmetics. Especially in the field of pharmacy, it can be very important to avoid any risk of overdose and / or under-counting. With a valve, operating by means of a propellant gas, the problem concerns especially the counting of the doses emitted, and it is often necessary to avoid any risk of under-counting to avoid that the user is left with an empty device while he thinks that there are some doses left to distribute. Indeed, counting systems are generally associated with these valves for counting the doses issued, these systems being generally actuated by the relative displacement between the reservoir and the valve of the valve. Problems may arise in case of partial or interrupted actuation, which can cause partial or no dose expulsion. Complicated counters have been proposed to take into account this problem, but their reliability imposes a complexity and thus a high cost. When using a pump, including new generation pumps, there may be another problem in addition to the risk of under-counting. Indeed, the spraying can be so fine that the distribution of the dose is not always felt by the user. This is especially true with some nasal delivery pumps. In this case, if there is no indication given to the user to indicate that the dose has been correctly dispensed, there is a risk that the user will operate the device again, thinking that his first actuation has was ineffective. This leads to a risk of overdose, which can be harmful for his health.

La présente invention a pour but de fournir un dispositif de pulvérisation de produit fluide qui ne reproduit pas les inconvénients susmentionnés.The present invention aims to provide a fluid spray device that does not reproduce the aforementioned drawbacks.

En particulier, la présente invention a pour but de fournir un dispositif de pulvérisation de produit fluide comportant une pompe ou une valve qui évite tout risque de surdosage et/ou de sous-comptage des doses émises.In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a device for spraying a fluid product comprising a pump or a valve which avoids any risk of overdose and / or under-counting of the doses emitted.

La présente invention a également pour but de fournir un tel dispositif qui soit simple et peu coûteux à fabriquer et à assembler, ainsi que sûre et fiable à utiliser.The present invention also aims to provide such a device that is simple and inexpensive to manufacture and assemble, as well as safe and reliable to use.

La présente invention a donc pour objet un dispositif de distribution de produit fluide tel que décrit dans la revendication 1. Des modes de réalisation avantageux sont décrits dans les revendications dépendantes.The present invention therefore relates to a fluid dispenser device as described in claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront plus clairement au cours de la description détaillée suivante faite en référence aux dessins joints, donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, et sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue schématique en section transversale d'un dispositif de pulvérisation selon un mode de réalisation,
  • la figure 2 est une vue de détail agrandie d'une partie de la figure 1,
  • la figure 3 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 1, montrant une variante de réalisation,
  • la figure 4 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 1, montrant un mode de réalisation de l'invention, et
  • la figure 5 est une vue de détail agrandie d'une partie de la figure 4.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly in the following detailed description given with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples, and in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a spraying device according to an embodiment,
  • the figure 2 is an enlarged detail view of some of the figure 1 ,
  • the figure 3 is a view similar to that of the figure 1 , showing an alternative embodiment,
  • the figure 4 is a view similar to that of the figure 1 , showing an embodiment of the invention, and
  • the figure 5 is an enlarged detail view of some of the figure 4 .

En référence à la figure 1, il est représenté un organe de distribution qui est une pompe 10, sur laquelle est assemblée une tête de distribution 20 pourvue d'un orifice de distribution 25. La pompe peut être d'un type quelconque, et la structure interne de cette pompe ne sera donc pas décrite plus amplement ci-après. La présente invention s'applique notamment, mais pas exclusivement, aux pompes de distribution qui sont adaptées à distribuer de manière très finement pulvérisée une dose de produit fluide à chaque actionnement. La tête de distribution 20 représentée sur la figure 1 est une tête de distribution nasale, et elle est utilisée pour actionner manuellement la pompe 10. Bien entendu, la présente invention n'est pas limitée à l'exemple représenté sur la figure, mais différentes variantes de réalisation sont envisageables. La pompe 10 est destinée à être assemblée sur un réservoir (non représenté), d'une manière quelconque connue.With reference to the figure 1 , there is shown a dispenser member which is a pump 10, on which is assembled a dispensing head 20 provided with a dispensing orifice 25. The pump can be of any type, and the internal structure of this pump does not will not be described in more detail below. The present invention applies in particular, but not exclusively, to dispensing pumps which are adapted to distribute in a very finely sprayed manner a dose of fluid product with each actuation. The dispensing head 20 shown on the figure 1 is a nasal dispensing head, and it is used to manually actuate the pump 10. Of course, the present invention is not limited to the example shown in the figure, but various embodiments are conceivable. The pump 10 is intended to be assembled on a reservoir (not shown), in any known manner.

Selon l'invention, le dispositif comporte des moyens de détection de distribution 30, 31 qui sont adaptés à détecter la distribution d'une dose de produit. Ces moyens de détection 30, 31 sont de préférence adaptés à délivrer un signal utilisé pour informer l'utilisateur qu'une dose de produit a été effectivement distribuée par ladite pompe. L'information de l'utilisateur peut être réalisée de diverses manières, par exemple au moyen d'un dispositif d'affichage. En variante, on pourrait envisager d'utiliser des moyens d'informations sonores ou similaires pour indiquer à l'utilisateur la distribution de la dose. Avantageusement, le signal émis par les moyens de détection de distribution 30 pourrait également être utilisé pour actionner un compteur de doses. Ainsi, dans le cas d'une pompe de distribution dans laquelle la dose est si finement pulvérisée que l'utilisateur ne se rend pas compte de cette distribution, la présente invention permet d'éviter tout risque de surdosage en informant l'utilisateur que la dose a bien été distribuée.According to the invention, the device comprises distribution detection means 30, 31 which are adapted to detect the distribution of a dose of product. These detection means 30, 31 are preferably adapted to deliver a signal used to inform the user that a dose of product has actually been dispensed by said pump. The information of the user can be realized in various ways, for example by means of a display device. Alternatively, one could consider using sound information means or the like to indicate to the user the distribution of the dose. Advantageously, the signal emitted by the distribution detection means 30 could also be used to actuate a dose counter. Thus, in the case of a dispensing pump in which the dose is so finely pulverized that the user is not aware of this distribution, the present invention makes it possible to avoid any risk of overdose by informing the user that the dose was well distributed.

Selon un premier mode de réalisation, ces moyens de détection comportent un détecteur de pression dynamique 30 pour détecter le passage de produit entre la pompe 10 et l'orifice de distribution 25.According to a first embodiment, these detection means comprise a dynamic pressure detector 30 for detecting the passage of product between the pump 10 and the dispensing orifice 25.

Le détecteur 30 comporte de préférence un matériau piézoélectrique, avantageusement du PVDF (PolyVynil DiFluoré), qui est un matériau plastique possédant des propriétés piézoélectriques, Avantageusement, comme visible sur la figure 2, le détecteur 30 comporte un tube de PVDF fonctionnant en mode respiration.The detector 30 preferably comprises a piezoelectric material, advantageously PVDF (PolyVynil DiFluoride), which is a plastic material having piezoelectric properties, Advantageously, as visible on FIG. figure 2 the detector 30 comprises a PVDF tube operating in breathing mode.

Cette mise en oeuvre garantit une détection parfaitement fiable, même en cas de très faibles quantités expulsées.This implementation guarantees a perfectly reliable detection, even in the case of very small quantities expelled.

Comme représenté sur la figure 1, le détecteur 30 peut être disposé dans le canal d'expulsion 50 qui relie la pompe de distribution 10 à l'orifice de pulvérisation 25 du dispositif. Avantageusement, il est disposé dans un manchon 40 relié d'une part à la tige d'actionnement de la pompe 10 et d'autre part à la tête de distribution 20. Ce manchon 40 peut être emmanché autour de cette tige d'actionnement, et il peut être formé en deux parties 41, 42 emboîtées l'une sur ou autour de l'autre, le détecteur 30 étant disposé entre ces deux parties. Ceci simplifie et facilite l'assemblage du dispositif, et permet de garantir l'étanchéité.As shown on the figure 1 the detector 30 may be disposed in the expulsion channel 50 which connects the dispensing pump 10 to the spray orifice 25 of the device. Advantageously, it is arranged in a sleeve 40 connected on the one hand to the actuating rod of the pump 10 and on the other hand to the dispensing head 20. This sleeve 40 can be fitted around this actuating rod, and it can be formed in two parts 41, 42 nested one on or around the other, the detector 30 being disposed between these two parts. This simplifies and facilitates the assembly of the device, and ensures sealing.

La figure 3 montre une variante de réalisation, dans lequel l'organe de distribution est une valve 10, par exemple une valve doseuse fonctionnant en position inversée. Le détecteur 30 est mis en oeuvre de manière similaire à l'exemple précédent, à savoir sous la forme d'un tube PVDF placé dans un manchon 40 réalisé en deux parties 41, 42, et assemblé autour du puit de soupape de la valve. Dans cette application, le produit fluide est généralement une solution aqueuse, la pression maximale en sortie de la valve pouvant aller jusqu'à 1000 kPa (10 bars). Ceci implique des contraintes élevées sur le détecteur ainsi que pour l'étanchéité, et la structure décrite ci-dessus permet de s'adapter sans problème à ces contraintes pour assurer un fonctionnement fiable du dispositif de distribution, évitant tout sous-comptage et tout surdosage, même en cas d'actionnement partiel du dispositif.The figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment, wherein the dispensing member is a valve 10, for example a metering valve operating in the inverted position. The detector 30 is implemented in a manner similar to the previous example, namely in the form of a PVDF tube placed in a sleeve 40 made in two parts 41, 42, and assembled around the valve well of the valve. In this application, the fluid product is generally an aqueous solution, the maximum pressure at the outlet of the valve being up to 1000 kPa (10 bar). This implies high stresses on the detector as well as the tightness, and the structure described above makes it possible to adapt without any problem to these constraints to ensure reliable operation of the dispensing device, avoiding any under-counting and overdosing. , even in case of partial actuation of the device.

La figure 4 montre un mode de réalisation de l'invention, dans lequel les moyens de détection comportent un détecteur formé par une fibre optique 30. Cette fibre optique est de préférence associée à une membrane déformable 31, avantageusement disposée autour d'une partie du canal d'expulsion 50. Lors de l'expulsion de produit fluide, la membrane 31 se déforme, notamment sous l'effet de la pression, ce qui génère des contraintes dans la fibre optique 30, créant ainsi un signal exploitable par des moyens électroniques 60 appropriés. La mesure optique est avantageuse en terme de miniaturisation dans la mesure ou l'on utilise une fibre optique compatible avec les techniques de moulage et/ou surmoulage plastique. Avantageusement, la fibre optique 30 coopère avec la membrane 31 dans un carter 45 qui peut être solidaire de la tête de distribution 20, et dans lequel la fibre optique 30 est retenue fixement de manière à détecter tout déformation de la membrane 31. Dans cet exemple de réalisation, les moyens électriques 60 peuvent comporter un émetteur et un détecteur sensible à la variation de flux lumineux transmis pas la fibre optique 30, variation due à la contrainte générée dans la fibre. La fibre optique peut être un plastique ou en verre.The figure 4 shows an embodiment of the invention, in which the detection means comprise a detector formed by an optical fiber 30. This optical fiber is preferably associated with a deformable membrane 31, advantageously arranged around a portion of the channel of expulsion 50. During the expulsion of fluid product, the membrane 31 is deformed, in particular under the effect of pressure, which generates stresses in the optical fiber 30, thus creating a signal exploitable by appropriate electronic means 60. Optical measurement is advantageous in terms of miniaturization insofar as an optical fiber compatible with molding techniques and / or plastic overmoulding is used. Advantageously, the optical fiber 30 cooperates with the membrane 31 in a housing 45 which can be secured to the dispensing head 20, and in which the optical fiber 30 is fixedly retained so as to detect any deformation of the membrane 31. In this example embodiment, the electrical means 60 may comprise a transmitter and a detector sensitive to the variation of light flux transmitted not the optical fiber 30, variation due to the stress generated in the fiber. The optical fiber can be a plastic or glass.

De manière générale, les moyens de détection 30, 31 peuvent être connectés, via des moyens de connexion adaptés 35, à des moyens électroniques (60) qui sont adaptés à traiter le ou les signaux délivrés par ledit détecteur 30, pour informer l'utilisateur de la distribution de la dose, et/ou actionner un compteur ou indicateur de doses.In general, the detection means 30, 31 can be connected, via suitable connection means 35, to electronic means (60) which are adapted to process the signal or signals delivered by said detector 30, to inform the user. the dose distribution, and / or operate a counter or dose indicator.

Bien que la présente invention ait été décrite en référence à des modes de réalisation particuliers de celle-ci, il est entendu qu'elle n'est pas limitée par les exemples représentés sur les figures. Au contraire, un homme du métier peut y apporter toutes modifications utiles sans sortir du cadre de la présente invention tel que défini par les revendications annexées.Although the present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments thereof, it is understood that it is not limited by the examples shown in the figures. On the contrary, a person skilled in the art can make any useful modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (12)

Dispositif de distribution de produit fluide comportant un organe de distribution de produit fluide (10), tel qu'une pompe ou une valve, et une tête de distribution (20) comportant un orifice de distribution, ledit dispositif comportant des moyens de détection de distribution (30, 31) pour détecter la distribution d'une dose de produit, lesdits moyens de détection (30, 31) étant adaptés à délivrer un signal pour informer l'utilisateur qu'une dose de produit à été effectivement distribuée par ledit organe de distribution (10), lesdits moyens de détection comprenant un détecteur (30) pour détecter le passage du produit fluide à partir dudit organe de distribution vers ledit orifice de distribution, caractérisé en ce que ledit détecteur (30) comporte une fibre optique (30), ladite fibre optique (30) étant associée à une membrane déformable (31) qui se déforme lors du passage de produit fluide, ladite déformation générant une contrainte dans la fibre optique (30).Fluid dispensing device comprising a fluid product dispensing member (10), such as a pump or a valve, and a dispensing head (20) having a dispensing orifice, said device comprising dispensing detection means (30, 31) for detecting the dispensing of a product dose, said detecting means (30, 31) being adapted to deliver a signal to inform the user that a dose of product has actually been dispensed by said dispensing member. dispensing device (10), said detection means comprising a detector (30) for detecting the passage of the fluid product from said dispensing member to said dispensing orifice, characterized in that said detector (30) comprises an optical fiber (30) , said optical fiber (30) being associated with a deformable membrane (31) which deforms during the passage of fluid, said deformation generating a stress in the optical fiber (30) . Dispositif selon la revendication 1, dans lequel l'organe de distribution (10) est relié à l'orifice de distribution (40) par un canal d'expulsion (50), lesdits moyens de détection (30, 31) étant prévus dans ledit canal d'expulsion (50).Device according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing member (10) is connected to the dispensing orifice (40) by an expulsion channel (50), said detecting means (30, 31) being provided in said expulsion channel (50). Dispositif selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans lequel ladite membrane déformable (31) est disposée autour d'une partie dudit canal d'expulsion (50).The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein said deformable membrane (31) is disposed around a portion of said expulsion channel (50). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ladite fibre optique (30) coopère avec ladite membrane déformable (31) dans un carter (45) solidaire de la tête de distribution (20).Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said optical fiber (30) cooperates with said deformable membrane (31) in a housing (45) integral with the dispensing head (20). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ladite fibre optique (30) est en plastique ou en verre.Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said optical fiber (30) is of plastic or glass. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel lesdits moyens de détection (30, 31) sont disposés dans un manchon (40) coopérant d'une part avec ledit organe de distribution (10) et d'autre part avec ladite tête de distribution.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said detection means (30, 31) are arranged in a sleeve (40) cooperating on the one hand with said dispensing member (10) and on the other hand with said head of distribution. Dispositif selon la revendication 6, dans lequel ledit manchon (40) est réalisé en deux parties (41, 42) emmanchées l'une sur et/ou autour de l'autre, lesdits moyens de détection (30, 31) étant disposés entre lesdites deux parties de manchon (41, 42).Device according to claim 6, wherein said sleeve (40) is made in two parts (41, 42) fitted one on and / or around the other, said detection means (30, 31) being arranged between said two sleeve portions (41, 42). Dispositif selon la revendication 6 ou 7, dans lequel ledit manchon (40) est emmanché autour de la soupape de la valve, respectivement de la tige d'actionnement de la pompe.Device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein said sleeve (40) is fitted around the valve of the valve, respectively of the actuating rod of the pump. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel lesdits moyens de détection (30, 31) sont connectés à des moyens électroniques (60) pour traiter les signaux délivrés par lesdits moyens de détection (30, 31).Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said detecting means (30, 31) is connected to electronic means (60) for processing the signals delivered by said detecting means (30, 31). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel lesdits moyens de détection (30, 31) sont adaptés à incrémenter, respectivement décrémenter, un compteur de doses.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said detection means (30, 31) are adapted to increment or decrement, a dose counter. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ledit organe de distribution est une pompe (10) adaptée à distribuer le produit de manière très finement pulvérisée.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said dispensing member is a pump (10) adapted to distribute the product very finely sprayed. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 10, dans lequel ledit organe de distribution est une valve doseuse (10) fonctionnant avec un gaz propulseur.Device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said dispensing member is a metering valve (10) operating with a propellant.
EP11170173A 2003-12-19 2004-12-16 Device for dispensing a fluid product. Active EP2369306B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0315040A FR2864231B1 (en) 2003-12-19 2003-12-19 DEVICE FOR DISPENSING FLUID PRODUCT
EP04816559A EP1700087B1 (en) 2003-12-19 2004-12-16 Fluid product dispensing device

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP04816559.1 Division 2004-12-16

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2369306A1 true EP2369306A1 (en) 2011-09-28
EP2369306B1 EP2369306B1 (en) 2012-12-05

Family

ID=34630370

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP11170173A Active EP2369306B1 (en) 2003-12-19 2004-12-16 Device for dispensing a fluid product.
EP04816559A Active EP1700087B1 (en) 2003-12-19 2004-12-16 Fluid product dispensing device

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP04816559A Active EP1700087B1 (en) 2003-12-19 2004-12-16 Fluid product dispensing device

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (2) US8869791B2 (en)
EP (2) EP2369306B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4664310B2 (en)
CN (2) CN101566487B (en)
FR (1) FR2864231B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2005061998A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB0725217D0 (en) * 2007-12-24 2008-02-06 Reckitt Benckiser Uk Ltd Cleaning device
FR2952042B1 (en) * 2009-11-03 2012-01-20 Valois Sas DEVICE FOR DISPENSING FLUID PRODUCT.
US9872964B2 (en) 2012-08-22 2018-01-23 Presspart Gmbh & Co. Kg Metered dose inhaler counter and metered-dose inhaler including such a counter
GB2505209A (en) * 2012-08-22 2014-02-26 Presspart Gmbh & Co Kg Metered-dose inhaler and counter
DE102014206350B3 (en) * 2014-04-02 2015-05-21 Aptar Radolfzell Gmbh Pharmaceutical dispenser with a detection device
CA3146544A1 (en) * 2018-07-09 2020-01-16 1Touch Holdings, Inc. Fluid dispensing apparatus
EP4333950A1 (en) * 2021-05-06 2024-03-13 10xBETA System and method for sensing usage of a controlled medical therapy device
US11617716B2 (en) 2021-06-10 2023-04-04 Belhaven BioPharma Inc. Dry powder formulations of epinephrine and associated methods

Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6138669A (en) * 1996-03-14 2000-10-31 Oneida Research Services, Inc. Dosage counter for metered dose inhaler (MDI) systems using a miniature pressure sensor
WO2002036190A2 (en) * 2000-10-31 2002-05-10 Glaxo Group Limited Medicament dispenser

Family Cites Families (34)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3603152A (en) * 1970-02-05 1971-09-07 Columbia Research Lab Inc Transducer for detecting pressure changes in fluid flow
JPS5330908B2 (en) * 1974-03-27 1978-08-30
CA1081501A (en) * 1977-11-10 1980-07-15 Ronald Price Diesel fuel pipe transducer
AT353507B (en) * 1977-11-11 1979-11-26 List Hans MEASUREMENT TRANSDUCER FOR DETERMINING THE INTERNAL PRESSURE OF PIPELINES
US4296635A (en) * 1980-06-11 1981-10-27 Hans List Transducer device for measuring the internal pressure in pipes
HU182638B (en) * 1982-02-25 1984-02-28 Debreceni Mezoegazdasagi Apparatus for continuous measuring the dosage of liquides or granulated materials first of all dusty caustics
US4972830A (en) * 1985-07-31 1990-11-27 Vortran Medical Technology, Inc. Inhalation device and method
JPH0619105Y2 (en) * 1987-06-23 1994-05-18 シャープ株式会社 Object detection sensor
JPS6429727A (en) * 1987-07-24 1989-01-31 Anritsu Corp Pressure detector
US4775816A (en) * 1987-11-09 1988-10-04 Stanadyne, Inc. Piezoelectric sensor
JPH0393753U (en) * 1990-01-12 1991-09-25
JPH0393754U (en) * 1990-01-12 1991-09-25
JPH05203473A (en) * 1991-11-27 1993-08-10 Fuji Electric Co Ltd Detecting device for fluid vibration
FR2685475B1 (en) * 1991-12-20 1995-09-22 Luro Sarl Ets CONTROLLED DISPENSING METHOD WITH VOLUMETRIC COUNTING OF QUANTITIES DOSE OF LIQUID AND DEVICE FOR ITS IMPLEMENTATION.
GB2266466B (en) * 1992-04-08 1995-12-20 Bespak Plc Inhalation apparatus
JPH065949A (en) * 1992-06-19 1994-01-14 Fujikura Ltd Manufacture of piezoelectric film
US5284133A (en) 1992-07-23 1994-02-08 Armstrong Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Inhalation device with a dose-timer, an actuator mechanism, and patient compliance monitoring means
GB9303335D0 (en) * 1993-02-19 1993-04-07 Bespak Plc Inhalation apparatus
US5415161A (en) * 1993-09-15 1995-05-16 Ryder; Steven L. Intermittant demand aerosol control device
JPH07135345A (en) * 1993-11-09 1995-05-23 Casio Comput Co Ltd Piezoelectric element
DE4422710C1 (en) * 1994-06-29 1995-09-14 Boehringer Ingelheim Kg Inhaler with storage container for aerosol
US5544647A (en) * 1994-11-29 1996-08-13 Iep Group, Inc. Metered dose inhalator
US5809997A (en) * 1995-05-18 1998-09-22 Medtrac Technologies, Inc. Electronic medication chronolog device
GB2304327A (en) * 1995-08-22 1997-03-19 Kevin Andrew Maclusky Metering dispenser for viscous fluids
DE19650115C1 (en) * 1996-12-03 1998-07-02 Fraunhofer Ges Forschung Medication dosing device
GB2323039B (en) * 1997-03-03 2001-03-14 Bespak Plc Improved inhalation apparatus
AU5970899A (en) * 1998-08-28 2000-03-21 Glaxo Group Limited Dispenser
US6353324B1 (en) * 1998-11-06 2002-03-05 Bridge Semiconductor Corporation Electronic circuit
GB2345010B (en) * 1998-12-17 2002-12-31 Electrosols Ltd A delivery device
JP3312216B2 (en) * 1998-12-18 2002-08-05 オムロン株式会社 Spraying equipment
CN1108967C (en) * 1999-03-12 2003-05-21 葛兰素集团有限公司 Metering valve
US6620151B2 (en) * 2001-03-01 2003-09-16 Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc. Non-constant pressure infusion pump
JP2003334473A (en) * 2002-05-17 2003-11-25 Mitani Valve Co Ltd Jetting button for aerosol container
US20040252290A1 (en) 2003-06-10 2004-12-16 Ferguson Gary W. Optical strain gauge and methods of use including a wind measurement device

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6138669A (en) * 1996-03-14 2000-10-31 Oneida Research Services, Inc. Dosage counter for metered dose inhaler (MDI) systems using a miniature pressure sensor
WO2002036190A2 (en) * 2000-10-31 2002-05-10 Glaxo Group Limited Medicament dispenser

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN101566487B (en) 2012-08-29
WO2005061998A1 (en) 2005-07-07
FR2864231B1 (en) 2006-05-19
EP2369306B1 (en) 2012-12-05
US20100078447A1 (en) 2010-04-01
US20070240707A1 (en) 2007-10-18
EP1700087A1 (en) 2006-09-13
JP4664310B2 (en) 2011-04-06
CN101566487A (en) 2009-10-28
CN1906467A (en) 2007-01-31
US8869791B2 (en) 2014-10-28
FR2864231A1 (en) 2005-06-24
JP2007534562A (en) 2007-11-29
EP1700087B1 (en) 2012-02-15
CN1906467B (en) 2011-01-05

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1841479B1 (en) Device for dispensing a fluid product
FR2861460A1 (en) Atomizer spray with pump and head for fluid product comprises detector with indicator informing user that dose of product has been dispensed
EP2369306B1 (en) Device for dispensing a fluid product.
WO2017178768A1 (en) Device for dispensing a fluid product synchronised with inhalation
EP2475463A1 (en) Liquid dispensing device
EP1765695A1 (en) Fluid product dispenser
WO2017174918A1 (en) Assembly for dispensing a fluid product
EP2021987A1 (en) Dose indicator for a fluid product dispensing device
FR2857770A1 (en) Dose indicator for a fluid distributor has amplification means for amplifying the displacement of transmission means linking a fluid distributor to a dosing indicator
FR2813214A1 (en) IMPROVED FLUID PRODUCT DISPENSING DEVICE
WO2005017824A1 (en) Improved dose indicator for fluid product dispensing device
WO2011055068A1 (en) Fluid material-dispensing device
FR2883850A1 (en) Dispenser for product in paste or liquid form e.g. vaccine has two plugs delimiting dosing chamber
FR2842905A1 (en) DOSAGE INDICATOR FOR A FLUID PRODUCT DISPENSING DEVICE
EP1661070A1 (en) Indicator of doses for a liquid product distribution device
WO2019155150A1 (en) Assembly for dispensing a fluid product
WO2021123615A1 (en) Device for dispensing a fluid product
FR3053262A1 (en) SYSTEM FOR PREPARING A PERSONALIZED COMPOSITION BY PRESSURE
FR3046553A1 (en) NASAL DISTRIBUTION SET OF FLUID PRODUCT.
WO2022123128A1 (en) Powder dose dispensing device
WO2022263771A1 (en) Spray head for a device for dispensing a fluid product
FR2854973A1 (en) Dose meter for liquid product dispenser, includes flexible metering tape which is fed from feeding ring to receiving ring each time the meter is activated, and carrying figures or symbols for indicating amount of dispensed product

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AC Divisional application: reference to earlier application

Ref document number: 1700087

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: P

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): DE FR GB IT

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20120326

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: G01F 13/00 20060101AFI20120507BHEP

Ipc: A61M 15/00 20060101ALI20120507BHEP

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: APTAR FRANCE SAS

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AC Divisional application: reference to earlier application

Ref document number: 1700087

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: P

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): DE FR GB IT

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602004040353

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20130131

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20130906

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602004040353

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20130906

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 602004040353

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: STAUDT IP LAW, DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 12

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 13

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 14

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20211210

Year of fee payment: 18

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20211220

Year of fee payment: 18

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20211213

Year of fee payment: 18

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 602004040353

Country of ref document: DE

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230526

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20221216

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20221216

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230701

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20221216

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20231227

Year of fee payment: 20